Gillian Loney

CHRISTMAS spirits are high this week following the I Love Clarkston Christmas Musical Blast Off.

Around 5,000 of you headed to Clarkston Halls for the BID (Business Improvement District) event on Saturday — whether it was to keep the kids amused, pick up some local business bargains or watch the firework finale.

Santa Claus flew in for the day along with his reindeer, and joined 30 local businesses (and a handful of guests) setting up stall alongside his festive grotto.

The rickshaws were out in force for those exhausted from too much Christmas shopping, and entertainment was provided throughout the day.

East Ren school choirs took to the stage to sing carols and festive favourites, and Glasgow Philharmonia - the orchestra formed by 18-year-old Williamwood conductor Ross Gunning - wowed Clarkston audiences.

The aim of the now annual event is to promote shopping locally, and bring festive shoppers back to their local high street — and the businesses still making their way in East Ren.

A Clarkston BID representative told The Extra: “The event was great, and we were blessed with the weather.

“Someone told us that Clarkston resembled itself 15 years ago — the streets were crowded once again.”